Apparatus, Assembly and System for a Collection Device

ABSTRACT

A collection apparatus for collection of articles, the collection apparatus including a first hinged body and a second hinged body connected by a hinge longitudinally along a length of the first and the second hinged body to form a hinged central body. A first assembly having a cover with a slot in communication with a top of the first hinged body, wherein the first assembly includes a collection container with an opening attached to the slot. A second assembly having a cover with a slot in communication with a top of the second hinged body and the support surface, wherein the second assembly includes at least one collection container with an opening attached to the slot. The hinged central body includes the hinge in an open hinge position.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to collection of articles, and more specifically to an apparatus, assembly and system for collection of articles.

BACKGROUND

As the population increases and societies become more and more crowded, it has become necessary for controlling the flow of people in public places in order to ensure a safe and orderly environment. In particular, entertainment events, such as concerts or sporting events require an organized entry and exit for a large number of people in order to collect revenue, and to ensure a safe and orderly environment for customers.

Crowd control barriers can include multiple posts connected with rope or retractable belts which are commonly used in high-traffic situations, such as entertainment events, to ensure a safe and orderly environment for customers. For example, crowd control barriers are commonly seen as noted above at entertainment venues (i.e. concerts, sporting events, movie theaters), as well as for service-related businesses (i.e. post offices, restaurants, airports, ticket sales offices, etc.). The service-related businesses have tried to capture more revenue from their customers as they wait in lines by posting advertising signs on nearby walls or ceilings near the queues. However, these types of revenue generating methods usually have little success due to the limited wall space on the nearby walls and/or that there are no ceilings over the queues to post the advertisements. Thus, the result is business owners have limited collection of revenue from customers in queues.

Also, while customers are in queues, the customers may throw articles, such as some of value or not of value, in the approximate area of the queue which may result in causing injury to one or more customers traveling through the queues.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved opportunity for the collection of articles on crowd control barriers and/or posts that are simple, efficient and affordable.

SUMMARY

According to at least one embodiment, a collection apparatus for collection of articles that includes a first hinged body and a second hinged body connected by at least one hinge longitudinally along a length of the first and the second hinged body to form a hinged central body. A first assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the first hinged body, wherein the first assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot. A second assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the second hinged body, wherein the second assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot, wherein the hinged central body includes the at least one hinge in an open hinge position.

According to at least one embodiment, a collection device for collection of articles including a central body having an interior, a top end and a bottom end. A support member including a support pole, wherein the central body is attached to the support member. Wherein a length of the central body is less than a length of the support pole and a radius of the central body is greater than a radius of the support pole, such that the bottom of the central body is positioned on one of the support member or a portion of a earth. At least two assemblies in communication with the top of the central body, each assembly of the at least two assemblies includes a cover, at least one slot in the cover and at least one collection container. Wherein the at least one collection container includes an open end attached to the at least one slot and extends into the interior of the central body.

Other features and aspects of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is further described in the detailed description which follows, in reference to the noted plurality of drawings by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments, in which like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a common crowd control barrier or stanchion having a bottom circular base and top end as known in the prior art;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a central body showing a height (h) and a radius (r) according to embodiments;

FIG. 2B is a top view of a central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the stanchion positioned in the central body, where the bottom circular base is in communication with a bottom of the central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a first bag assembly according to embodiments;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a second bag assembly according to embodiments;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the stanchion positioned in the central body of FIG. 3, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned outside of the central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the stanchion positioned in the central body of FIG. 3, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned within the central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a post positioned in a hinged central body including a first central body portion and a second central body portion that are attached together by a hinge to form the hinged central body, wherein a first bag assembly and the second bag assembly are positioned outside of the hinged central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a post positioned in the hinged central body, wherein a first bag assembly and the second bag assembly are positioned inside of the hinged central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a parking meter post positioned in the hinged central body of FIG. 6B, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned within the hinged central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a sign post positioned in the hinged central body of FIG. 6B, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned within the hinged central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a street lamp post positioned in the hinged central body of FIG. 6B, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned within the hinged central body according to embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a guide rail or fence post positioned in the hinged central body of FIG. 6B, with the first bag assembly and the second bag assembly positioned within the hinged central body according to embodiments; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an opened hinged central body of FIG. 6B according to embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the following description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It is being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter disclosed as set forth in the appended claims.

The present disclosure provides apparatus, assemblies and systems, for the collection of articles on a crowd control barrier or a stanchion. In particular, the present disclosure provides a stanchion (or crowd control barrier) with a central body having a first bag assembly and a second bag assembly located at the top of the central body with a top of the stanchion extending there through. The top of the stanchion may include a retractable belt assembly (not shown) or a receiving belt attachment for the retractable belt (not shown) for connecting multiple stanchions together via the belt. It is possible the top of the stanchion may alternatively include a rope attachment for a rope to connect multiple stanchions together (not shown).

The term crowd control barrier or stanchion can be free standing and/or portable that may include a base. However, it possible the crowd control barrier or stanchion may be fixed into the ground. For the purpose of the present disclosure the term crowd control barrier or stanchion can either be a single unit or multiple units that are either be fixed to the ground or portable. Regarding the single unit, it is possible the crowd control barrier or stanchion may include at least one sign without a retractable belt or rope.

A fixed crowd control barrier or stanchion may include a post that is secured into the ground. The term post can be understood to be a support post insertable into a base or medium such as the ground (or earth) and which is able to carry an object such as a crowd guidance barrier or sign. More particularly, the support post is of the type suitable for forming part of a crowd control barrier and which is therefore able, in use, to withstand a degree of lateral force.

It is contemplated that the crowd control barrier or stanchion could be substituted as a single post. For example, the post may include a parking meter post, a street sign post, a sign post, a street lamp post, a light post, a guide rail post or a fence post. It is conceivable that the post may be of any type of post.

The term article in the phrase “collection of articles” can include any form of money (i.e., something generally accepted as a medium of exchange, a measure of value, or a means of payment such as coins, bills or any type of paper or check representing money). The term article may also include recyclable items such as plastic, glass, cans or the like. It is possible the term article may include something of value, for example jewelry, precious metals, i.e., gold, silver, mobile phones, eyeglasses, or valued stamps, or the like. Further, the term article may include something that is not of value, such as trash, i.e., ticket stubs, used wrapping from products or the like.

FIG. 1 (prior art) illustrates a perspective view of a common stanchion (or crowd control barrier) 100. The stanchion 100 includes a support pole 102, a top end 104 and a base 106. The top end 104 can be fixed or mounted on or integrally formed with the stanchion 100. The top end 104 can include a retractable belt 104A, receiver for a retractable belt (not shown) or an attachment to connect a rope (not shown). It is contemplated that the base 106, support pole 102 and top end 104 can be of any shape or design, i.e. linear, non-linear or some combination thereof. The support pole has an overall length (l) and a radius (r).

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a central body 108. The central body 108 includes a height (h) or a y-axis direction, wherein the height of the central body 108 is less than the length (l) of the support pole 102. The central body 108 includes a radius (r) or a x-axis direction, wherein the radius of the central body 108 is less than the radius of the base 106 of the stanchion 100 (see FIG. 3).

FIG. 2B is a top view of the central body 108. The central body 108 can be a unitary piece or comprise of multiple pieces. At least one advantage of the central body 108 having multiple pieces may be to provide a height adjustment feature so as to add or subtract to the overall height of the central body. Another possible advantage of having multiple pieces may be for providing a damping feature, wherein damping devices may be located between two central body pieces so the central body 108 may withstand an environment including vibration forces or like forces.

Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the central body 108 may be made of a translucent material, solid material, opaque material or some combination thereof. For example, the central body may be a clear material that allows users to view the collection of articles at the time of collection, i.e., similar to gum ball configuration wherein the user depositing the article for collection may view the collect of the article via gravitational forces so as to be entertained during the collection experience.

Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the central body 108 may include one or more wheel (not shown) approximate the bottom end 108A to provide ease in transporting the central body 108 (see FIG. 3). It is contemplated the central body 108 may include one or more locking device (not shown) to secure the central body 108 to the stanchion 100. It is possible the central body 108 may include at least one access door (not shown) so as to access the interior of the central body 108. It is also contemplated the central body 108 may include one or more interior member (not shown) that forms a cavity for holding articles provided by attendees within the queue. Wherein the articles may exit the cavity of the central body 108 by a gravity force upon collection of the articles by an employee at some later time.

Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the central body 108 may be shaped and/or designed as a logo (or trademark) and/or an artistic design representing a product, business or an entity.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the stanchion 100 positioned in the central body 108, where the base 106 is in communication with a bottom 108A of the central body 108. The central body 108 and base 106 are shown as a cylindrical shape; however, other shapes and designs are contemplated. The central body 108 includes a top edge 108B. Further, FIG. 3 shows the top end 104 of the stanchion 100. It is contemplated the central body 108 may have one or more slots/holes positioned between the top end 104 and the bottom 108A (not shown).

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a first bag assembly 110. The first bag assembly 110 includes a cover 110A having at least one slot 110B and a collection bag 110C. It is contemplated the cover 110A form fits to the support post 102 when a groove (not shown in FIG. 4A, see 112D of FIG. 4B) of the cover 110A engages the top 108B of the central body 108 (see FIG. 3). Further, those having skill in the art will recognize that the particular shape or design of the slot 110B may be of any shape or design, i.e., linear, non-linear or some combination thereof.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a second bag assembly 112. The second bag assembly 112 is structured and arranged as the first bag assembly 110, but is a mirror image of the first bag assembly 110 (see FIG. 5B). In particular, the first bag assembly 110 form fits with the support post 102 and the second bag assembly 112 when assembled (see FIG. 5B). For example, the second bag assembly 112 includes a cover 112A having at least one slot 112B and a collection bag 112C. It is contemplated the cover 112A form fits to the support post 102 when a groove 112D of the cover 112A engages the top end 108B of the central body 108 (see FIG. 3).

Still referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the first 110 and the second 112 bag assemblies may include a lid (not shown) for the slots 110B, 112B, respectively. The lid (not shown) may be one of magnetic, spring loaded, a locking lid or the like. Further, it is possible the first 110 and the second 112 bag assemblies may include at least one lock (not shown) for securing the bag assembles to either the stanchion and/or the central body. It is also contemplated the bags 110C, 112C may either be fastened to the cover 110A, 112A or in communication with the top end 108B of the central body 108, i.e., when the covers 110A, 112A are placed over the top 108B of the central body 108 it secures the bag 110C, 112C in place. It is also possible that the bags 110C, 112C may be replaced with a removable insert type of container (not shown). It is possible the first 110 and the second 112 bag assemblies may be a single assembly instead of being two assemblies.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the stanchion 100 positioned in the central body 108 of FIG. 3, with the first bag assembly 110 and the second bag assembly 112 positioned outside of the central body 108. The top end 104 of the stanchion 100 extends above the top end 108B of the central body 108 and the base 106 of the stanchion 100 extends outwardly from the bottom end 108A of the central body 108.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the stanchion 100 positioned in the central body 108 of FIG. 3, with the first bag assembly 110 and the second bag assembly 112 positioned inside of the central body 108. The top end 104 of the stanchion 100 extends above the top end 108B of the central body 108 and the base 106 of the stanchion 100 extends outwardly from the bottom end 108A of the central body 108.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a post 602 positioned in a hinged central body 608 including a first hinged central body portion 608AA and a second hinged central body portion 608BB. At least one hinge (not shown) can be used to attach the first hinged central body portion 608AA and the second hinged central body portion 608BB to form the hinged central body 608. FIG. 6A, shows the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212 positioned outside of the hinged central body 608.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the post 602 positioned in the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA and the second hinged central body portion 608BB. FIG. 6B shows the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212 positioned within the hinged central body 608. It is contemplated at least one hinge (not shown) can be mounted on either the interior or exterior of the hinged central body 608.

FIGS. 7-10 are perspective views of the hinged central body 608 of FIG. 6B, wherein the post is different for each figure as explained below.

Referring to FIG. 7, the post in FIG. 7 is a post of a parking meter 702. FIG. 7 also shows the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA, the second hinged central body portion 608BB, the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a sign post 802 positioned in the hinged central body 608 of FIG. 6B. FIG. 8 also shows the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA, the second hinged central body portion 608BB, the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a street lamp post 902 positioned in the hinged central body 608 of FIG. 6B. FIG. 9 also shows the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA, the second hinged central body portion 608BB, the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a guide rail or fence post 1002 positioned in the hinged central body 608 of FIG. 6B. FIG. 10 also shows the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA, the second hinged central body portion 608BB, the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an opened hinged central body 608 of FIG. 6B. It is contemplated the hinged central body 608 may be mounted on a wall (not shown). FIG. 11 also shows the hinged central body 608 including the first hinged central body portion 608AA, the second hinged central body portion 608BB, the first bag assembly 210 and the second bag assembly 212. It is contemplated the hinged central body 608 may be placed in an open hinged positioned and attached to a flat surface (not shown) using attachment means (not shown), such as screws, brackets and screws, hooks or the like. It is noted the attachment means (not shown) may be attached to the central body 608 either in the interior or exterior of the central body 608.

The disclosed collection device is contemplated to include many types of article collection regarding the collection of revenue or donations. For example, credit card machines may be used for users to swipe their credit card for limited or non-limited amount of donations. An alternative collection of revenue may include EZ Pass-style cards, RFID cards, coin-star joint venture or the like. Further, the collection device may be configured to provide a receipt to the user upon a donation either printed or digital. The collection device may include a coin counter or sort device.

It is possible the collection device may provide revenue generating via selling ad space. It is contemplated that the collection device may be incorporated into a game or the like to attract or interact with users, i.e., via a smart phone or computer device. The collection device may provide users with takeaway products such as brochures, cards, stickers, etc.

Further, it is contemplated the collection device may include information transfer related features, such as: Bluetooth capabilities; electronic devices that wirelessly send/collect information to/from users including texts to user smart phones; and electronic devices with or without lights that provide messaging/dynamic messaging to users.

Further still, the collection device may be configured to receive and send-out information either wirelessly or hard wired. The collection device for example may receive data related to graphics to be displayed, messages to be sent to user or displayed, or data relating to an update of the collection of articles received.

It is possible the collection device may include audio sound either digital or mechanical via an audio device. Further, the collection device may include video and audio capabilities via video/audio devices.

According to at least one embodiment, a collection apparatus for collection of articles that includes a first hinged body and a second hinged body connected by at least one hinge longitudinally along a length of the first and the second hinged body to form a hinged central body. A first assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the first hinged body, wherein the first assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot. A second assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the second hinged body, wherein the second assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot, wherein the hinged central body includes the at least one hinge in an open hinge position.

According to aspects of the present disclosure, the hinged central body can be of a material that is from a group consisting of one of a translucent material, an opaque material, a clear material or some combination thereof. Further, the hinged central body can be attached to a support member by one of the top, the bottom, a portion of the hinged central body or some combination thereof. It is possible that the second hinged body or the support member can be one of linear, non-linear or some combination thereof. Further still, the hinged central body can include one or more locking device to secure the hinged central body to the support member. It is possible that the support member can be selected from a group consisting of a wall, a corner of two walls intersecting or a surface able to support the hinged central body and the first and the second assemblies. Further, that one of the hinged central body, the support member or both can include one or more wheel. Further still, the first and the second hinged body can be a shape from a group consisting of one of linear, non-linear or some combination thereof.

According to aspects of the present disclosure, the cover includes a groove that engages the top of the hinged central body. Further, the at least one slot can include a lid. It is possible that the at least one collection container of the first and the second assemblies can be replaced with a removable insert type container. Further, the at least one hinge can be attached to the first and the second hinge body by one of the interior or an exterior of the first and the second hinge body. Further, the first hinged body, the second hinged body or both can include at least one access door. Further still, the central body can be a unitary piece or two or more pieces.

According to at least one embodiment, a collection device for collection of articles includes a central body having an interior, a top end and a bottom end. A support member including a support pole, wherein the central body is attached to the support member. Wherein a length of the central body is less than a length of the support pole and a radius of the central body is greater than a radius of the support pole, such that the bottom of the central body is positioned on one of the support member or a portion of a earth. At least two assemblies in communication with the top of the central body, each assembly of the at least two assemblies includes a cover, at least one slot in the cover and at least one collection container. Wherein the at least one collection container includes an open end attached to the at least one slot and extends into the interior of the central body.

According to aspects of the present disclosure, the central body is a unitary piece or two or more pieces. Further, one of the central body, the support member or both can include one or more wheel. Further still, the support member can be one of portable or non-portable. It is possible that the first and the second assemblies can be a single assembly. Further, the support member can be selected from a group consisting of a crowd control barrier, a stanchion, a portable base or a non-portable base. Further still, the support post can be selected from a group consisting of a parking meter post, a street sign post, a street lamp post, a guide rail post or a fence post.

Whereas many alterations and modifications of the present disclosure will no doubt become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art after having read the foregoing description, it is to be understood that the particular embodiments shown and described by way of illustration are in no way intended to be considered limiting. Further, the disclosure has been described with reference to particular preferred embodiments, but variations within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will occur to those skilled in the art. It is noted that the foregoing examples have been provided merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the present disclosure. While the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words, which have been used herein, are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made, within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure in its aspects. Although the present disclosure has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the present disclosure extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A collection apparatus for collection of articles comprising: a first hinged body and a second hinged body connected by at least one hinge longitudinally along a length of the first and the second hinged body to form a hinged central body; a first assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the first hinged body, wherein the first assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot; a second assembly having a cover with at least one slot in communication with a top of the second hinged body, wherein the second assembly configured to accept at least one collection container that is attached to the at least one slot; wherein the hinged central body includes the at least one hinge in an open hinge position.
 2. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hinged central body is of a material that is from a group consisting of one of a translucent material, an opaque material, a clear material or some combination thereof.
 3. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hinged central body is attached to a support member by one of the top, the bottom, a portion of the hinged central body or some combination thereof.
 4. The collection apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first hinged body, the second hinged body or the support member is one of linear, non-linear or some combination thereof.
 5. The collection apparatus of claim 3, wherein the hinged central body includes one or more locking device to secure the hinged central body to the support member.
 6. The collection apparatus of claim 3, wherein the support member is selected from a group consisting of a wall, a corner of two walls intersecting or a surface able to support the hinged central body and the first and the second assemblies.
 7. The collection apparatus of claim 3, wherein one of the hinged central body, the support member or both include one or more wheel.
 8. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and the second hinged body are a shape from a group consisting of one of linear, non-linear or some combination thereof.
 9. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a groove that engages the top of the hinged central body.
 10. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one slot includes a lid.
 11. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one collection container of the first and the second assemblies is replaced with a removable insert type container.
 12. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one hinge is attached to the first and the second hinge body by one of the interior or an exterior of the first and the second hinge body.
 13. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first hinged body, the second hinged body or both include at least one access door.
 14. The collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the central body is a unitary piece or two or more pieces.
 15. A collection device for collection of articles comprising: a central body having an interior, a top end and a bottom end; a support member including a support pole, wherein the central body is attached to the support member; wherein a length of the central body is less than a length of the support pole and a radius of the central body is greater than a radius of the support pole, such that the bottom of the central body is positioned on one of the support member or a portion of a earth; and at least two assemblies in communication with the top of the central body, each assembly of the at least two assemblies includes a cover, at least one slot in the cover and at least one collection container; wherein the at least one collection container includes an open end attached to the at least one slot and extends into the interior of the central body.
 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the central body is a unitary piece or two or more pieces.
 17. The collection device of claim 15, wherein one of the central body, the support member or both include one or more wheel.
 18. The collection device of claim 15, wherein the support member is one of portable or non-portable.
 19. The collection device of claim 15, wherein the first and the second assemblies are a single assembly.
 20. The collection device of claim 15, wherein the support member is selected from a group consisting of a crowd control barrier, a stanchion, a portable base or a non-portable base.
 21. The collection device of claim 15, wherein the support post is selected from a group consisting of a parking meter post, a street sign post, a street lamp post, a guide rail post or a fence post. 